Path: utzoo!utgpu!jarvis.csri.toronto.edu!mailrus!csd4.milw.wisc.edu!lll-winken!uunet!van-bc!lpami
From: lphillips@lpami.wimsey.bc.ca (Larry Phillips)
Newsgroups: comp.sys.amiga
Subject: Re: Prospective beta tester?
Message-ID: <2406@van-bc.UUCP>
Date: 6 May 89 13:41:20 GMT
Sender: lpami@van-bc.UUCP
Lines: 32

In <17961@cup.portal.com>, Doug_B_Erdely@cup.portal.com writes:
> I have been asked to be a beta test site for a new Amiga software package. The
>software package in question is something that I have alot of experience with,
>so they felt that I would be a good candidate. The software will retail for
>over $300, $350 comes to mind. My problem is that they want each beta test site
>to pay $100 for the beta copy, and sign a non-disclosure agreement. Now the 
>non-disclosure agreement I have no problems with, but the $100 part sounds
>kinda funny. It goes on to mention that when the software is released, that...
>"you will have the option of buying a complete package for the price of $75.00
>for a total cost of $175.00 to the beta tester." Now I have never done beta
>testing before, but this does sound kinda fishy. I mean, why should I pay to
>help them work out bugs? Does this sound right? Marco? Leo??

  At least one other company I know of asked a fee from their beta testers.
While it is not common, there is nothing inherently wrong with it. It prevents
the onslaught of thousands of folks wanting a freebie, and who may or may not
do a good job of testing the package. In this case, it sounds like they want
you to be a tester because of your experience and knowledge, so it's a little
surprising that they ask you to pay.

  A good (and honest) beta tester is worth her weight in gold, and should be
treated accordingly. Sadly, not all beta testers are created equal.

-larry

--
  - Don't tell me what kind of a day to have! -
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|   //   Larry Phillips                                                |
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|        COMPUSERVE: 76703,4322                                        |
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